FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What type of animals do you treat?
A: We specialize in treating dogs and cats.

Q: After my pet has been treated, when can I pick him/her up?
A: We release pets during regular office hours to ensure that the other patients are not disturbed after hours.

Q: How far in advance do I need to make an appointment for grooming services?
A: Please schedule your appointment as early as possible. This is particularly important during the holiday season.
Contact Information:
West Side Animal Hospital
5837 West Chicago Ave
Chicago, IL 60651

Phone: 773-287-4841


Business Hours:
Monday, Tuesday,Thursday and Friday 9AM - 4PM, Wednesday and Sunday Closed

Q: How do I make an appointment?
A: Call us at 773-278-6019 or stop by the hospital. We are available Monday - Friday 9AM-6PM, Saturday 9AM-3PM, and Sunday 10AM-2PM

Q: What are the most common dental problems in pets?
A: Over 70% of all dogs and cats over five years of age suffer from periodontal disease, which means that they have loss of the supporting structures of the teeth. In most cases this process is uncomfortable, and it will eventually lead to problems such as loose teeth, bacteria in the blood stream, and damage to the kidneys, heart and liver. The majority of dogs and cats seen at this practice over the age of 5 have one or more painful teeth in their mouth.

Q: Why is my pet's breath so bad?
A: Bad breath is usually associated with bacteria in the mouth that produce sulphur containing compounds such as hydrogen sulfides and methyl mercapatans. These compounds not only smell bad, but they also are damaging to the oral tissues. Professional cleaning along with home plaque control gives the best results. Bad breath that returns very shortly after a cleaning indicates that there may be some deep-seated problems that may have been overlooked. Bad breath is occasionally seen with medical conditions such as kidney failure and diabetes.

Q: How can I take weight off my pet?
A: First, visit your veterinarian to be sure the weight gain is not caused by a medical condition. Then, switch to a reduced calorie formula diet (the veterinarian can suggest one) and curb the amount of treats. Adding vegetables to your pet's food will add bulk to a meal without adding calories. Visiting the veterinary hospital for frequent weigh-ins will help keep you and your pet on the right track.

Q: What are heartworms? How do pets get heartworm disease?
A: Heartworms are parasites that are spread by mosquitoes. Most dogs are at risk for developing heartworm disease. Heartworms live in the pulmonary artery of the heart and will eventually cause heart failure. Prevention is easy, and one of the most important things you can do your dog. If your dog is diagnosed with heartworms, our doctors can discuss treatment options specifically for your pet. This disease can be treated if the infection is diagnosed early.

Q: The boarding kennel wants my dog to have the "kennel cough" vaccine. What is that?
A: 'Kennel cough' is a bacterial infection involved in infectious tracheobronchitis and is spread by airborne bacteria. A dog may come in contact with this bacteria through contact with other dogs in places such as kennels, dog shows, or veterinary hospitals. It is recommended that dogs that will be in these situations be vaccinated one week prior to exposure.

Q: When can I get my pet spayed or neutered?
A: Generally, puppies and kittens can be spayed or neutered between 4 and 6 months of age. Call West Side Animal Hospital to schedule your pet to be spayed or neutered today!

Q: Who should I contact for an after hours emergency?
A: For after hours emergency care please call Chicago Veterinary Emergency Services at 773-281-7110 .